The first event in the highly anticipated PokerStars UK and Ireland Poker Tour, which took place in Galway, has been won by local favorite Padraig Parkinson. The player only lives down the road, and the crowd were desperate for him to take the title. His win was the perfect start to the tour, and he got to take away the €125,000 first prize as well as the €5,000 entry to EPT London.

The local man beat Paul Marrow in heads-up play in what turned out to be a short but entertaining match. The chips were fairly even when heads-up play began, but in the end it looked like destiny was on Parkinson’s side as he fought off the challenge. Marrow won €82,000 for his efforts.

Parkinson first came to the poker world’s attention when he came third in the 1999 WSOP Main Event, and since then he has won a host of tournaments that have made him one of the most well-respected and popular players on the circuit.

After his victory he said, “I was born just down the road so I can't believe that I won it. If anyone wants a drink, I'm buying.” In all, 259 players paid up the €2,000 buy-in for a shot at the Galway title. The next leg is the more affordable £500 buy-in Manchester event on February 11 next year.